Identifying low T symptoms and signs of decreased production is not always easy because a number of signs and symptoms that can be associated with it can also be linked to a number of other illnesses or medical conditions.

In order to determine if your levels are low or something else, schedule a visit with your doctor or a Low T Center.

Common Low Testosterone Symptoms

Testosterone is produced by the male testes, but only when the testes are told to do so by the pituitary and the hypothalamus glands.

The pituitary and hypothalamus glands are located in the brain. So what do those glands have to do with the testicles?

The pituitary gland is known as the master gland of the body because it controls the functions and production as well as secretion of hormones from all the glands in the body.

When the hypothalamus gland, located near the pituitary gland, receives signals that testosterone levels are low, it sends the pituitary gland a chemical messenger known as luteinizing hormone, which stimulates the testicles to synthesize or manufacture testosterone.

Signs of Low Testosterone

Remember that a sign is equated to something that can be seen, touched, or measured.

Some of the most common signs of low testosterone levels include:

decreased muscle mass

decreased volume of ejaculate

decreased size of testicles

increased fat mass

decreased bone mass or decreased height

difficulty obtaining and maintaining an erection

developing medical conditions like Type 2 diabetes

weight gain, sometimes leading to obesity

thyroid issues

If you notice any of the above signs or symptoms, or other changes in your body, especially as you head into your 40s, schedule a visit with your doctor and get a checkup.

Levels can fluctuate widely between adolescence and adulthood. Production gradually declines on a yearly basis for middle aged men (after about the age of 40).

This decline in production of is often called male menopause.

What Are My Treatment Options?

If you’re experiencing signs of low testosterone, your doctor may discuss a variety of options with you.

One of those options is testosterone replacement therapy, mainly in the form of injections. Be aware however, that some men may need to undergo treatments for the rest of their life.

Injections or topical creams are common forms of replacement therapy, and can contribute to benefits and physical and emotional health and wellness for many men, but it is not recommended, or even beneficial for some.

In most cases, testosterone replacement therapy will be recommended to individuals experiencing symptoms of low testosterone that affect physical and emotional health including interruption of sleep patterns, physical changes in the body or organ function, or those dealing with changes in emotional status including lack of self-confidence, motivation, or depression.

Doctors don’t typically prescribe hormonal treatment for men who are not experiencing low testosterone symptoms or signs or those whose levels measure within normal ranges but wish to take such supplements for enhancing athletic performance, body building, or for sporting competitions.